#EUSEA25 – Pre Conference
The pre-conference events of #EUSEA25 on 13 May 2025 offered participants a rich and varied introduction to the natural, cultural, and scientific treasures of Gran Canaria. Attendees chose from a series of guided visits, each offering a unique lens into the island’s biodiversity, heritage, and innovation.
One group explored the Marine Technology Centre of Taliarte, visiting both PLOCAN and the Spanish Algae Bank, where they toured cutting-edge labs dedicated to oceanic research and marine biotechnology. Another group ventured north to the Cueva Pintada de Gáldar and the Cenobio de Valerón, learning from archaeologists about the lives and survival strategies of the Guanches, the island’s Indigenous people.
A visit to the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo offered a peaceful walk among native and Macaronesian plant species, while a guided tour of Poema del Mar Aquarium introduced visitors to aquatic ecosystems from around the world, led by a marine biologist.
The day wrapped up with a pre-conference cocktail at the Skybar of the LIVVO Lumm Hotel, where attendees gathered to enjoy panoramic views, make new connections, and ease into the week ahead in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as a a live demonstration of Silbo Gomero, the remarkable whistled language of the Canary Islands that can be heard from kilometres away, a true testament to the diversity of human communication.
